Can hamsters see in the dark?

A:

Quick Answer

According to Petco, hamsters are nocturnal and can see in the dark. However, hamsters have naturally poor vision and depend on their large, funnel-shaped ears to safely navigate their surroundings. Hamsters are also color-blind.

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Hamsters have a limited sense of distance due to their poor vision. In addition to their auditory senses, hamsters use their teeth to determine if certain objects are edible. It is important for hamster owners to take precautions when petting or grooming their hamsters, as it is easy for a hamster to mistake fingers for foods such as carrot sticks. It is also important to keep hamsters protected when they are out of their cages, as their poor vision can lead to accidents.

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Hamsters can swim, but they are at risk of drowning or catching pneumonia from doing so. Hamsters should not be bathed unless they are very dirty or sticky, as they are susceptible to chilling and extreme temperature changes.

Hamsters often fight because they are territorial. Territorial fights occur when cages are too small or when a new hamster is placed in another hamster's cage. According to Hamster Fanciers, hamsters may also fight if they are different breeds and placed in the same cage.

Hamsters come from various parts of Asia. This includes Siberia, the north of China, the Middle East and Asia Minor. They live in fairly arid habitats but can also be found in gardens, orchards, cropland and elevations as high as 12,000 feet.